Vicky Donnellan (British Museum) will discuss the history of classical archaeology collections in various regional museums, focusing on the stories of collectors, donors and founders, and including the changing history of displays.

From skull measurements to ancient DNA: putting John Thurnam’s collection of antiquities in their prehistoric and archaeological context24 April 2018, 6-7pmRoom 209, UCL Institute of Archaeology

Neil Wilkin (The British Museum) explores the life and intellectual context of 19th century antiquarian and physician John Thurnam, whose collection of artefacts relating to the prehistory of Britain was sold after his death to the British Museum. Through his interest in ancient human remains, he drew conclusions about race and identity; a history that reflects an enduring interest in the DNA of ancient peoples and how that interest ties into modern concerns.

Neil Wilkin's blog post discussing various strands of the talk can be found here.

James E. Snead (California State University, Northridge) will discuss the history of an iconic find, and how it affected both the beginnings of scientific archaeology and popular culture in the United States.

A free exhibition about the ethics and implications of human remains. Featuring the work of archaeologist Flinders Petrie, and a discussion of his request to leave his head to science. Further details here.

An exhibition charting the history of Roman archaeology in London, and the sites and artefacts relating to Roman London. It highlights the pioneering work of London antiquary Charles Roach-Smith, and illuminates the history of the Museum of London's predecessor, the Guildhall Museum. Further information and a list of associated events can be found here.

Amara Thornton introduces the documentary Letters from Baghdad, starring Tilda Swinton as the voice of Gertrude Bell as part of the Different Perspectives: Archaeology and the Middle East in World War One. The event is free and booking information can be found ﻿﻿here﻿﻿

Victorian artist Lawrence Alma-Tadema produced many works that illustrated life in the Classical world. The exhibition will take visitors through Alma-Tadema's life and work, and the influence that his art continues to have on our perception of the classical world today. Also features the art of Alma-Tadema's wife Laura Alma-Tadema and daugher Anna Alma-Tadema. Entrance ticket to Leighton House gives entry to exhibition. Further details here.

Following the adventures of early 19th century Italian-born excavator (and former strong-man) ﻿Giovanni Battista Belzoni ﻿and the history and reception of the objects he brought back to Britain from Egypt.